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Border control

Depending on your nationality, different entry and exit procedures apply when travelling via Cologne Bonn Airport. The following information explains when EasyPASS or the Entry/Exit System (EES) is used. You will also find out:

  • who can use EasyPASS,
  • which persons are covered by the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES),
  • how to pre-register independently at the self-service kiosk.

EasyPASS

EasyPASS is the automated border control system for:

  • Citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland (aged 12 and above)
  • Travellers with a German residence permit (aged 12 and over)
  • EasyPASS-RTP registrants (aged 12 and over): citizens of the USA, Great Britain, Korea, Taiwan or Hong Kong (China)

Travellers scan their passport at the automated control lane and have their photo taken – the barrier then opens automatically. An important requirement: passengers must have an electronic passport (ePass) or a German electronic identity card.

If passengers are unable to use EasyPASS, they should follow the signs to the border control desk.

Further information is available at easypass.de.

Entry/Exit System (EES)

EES is the entry and exit procedure for citizens from non-EU countries who are staying in the European Union for a short period (up to 90 days within a 180-day period). The following data is collected:

Travel dates Personal data Photo Fingerprints

  • Travel dates
  • Personal data
  • Facial photo
  • Fingerprints

Self-service kiosks are available at Cologne Bonn Airport for pre-registration. Individual data can already be recorded there independently.

Further information on EES can be found on the websites of the Federal Police and the European Union.

Useful information for travellers

The video below provides important and helpful information about entering and leaving the country. The film is in English. Please use the subtitle function if required.

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Self-service system for the entry/exit system

At Cologne Bonn Airport, you can pre-register yourself at a self-service kiosk using your biometric passport. Please ensure that the device is only used by one person at a time and follow the step-by-step instructions on the screen. Then proceed to the border control desk, where your data will be checked and your fingerprints will be taken again.

Where can I find the self-service kiosks?

The self-service pre-registration systems are located in the immediate vicinity of passport control. Please follow the signs.

Who cannot use the self-service facility?

  • Travellers without a biometric passport
  • Children under 12
  • Travellers with disabilities

Your details will be recorded directly at the border control desk. You can proceed directly there.

Step by step to EES registration

Pass-Scan

Place your passport on the left side of the self-service kiosk. This will allow your details to be scanned.

Facial image

The screen will guide you step by step through the process of capturing an image of your face.

Fingerprints

The fingerprints of your right hand – excluding your thumb – will be scanned on the right-hand side of the kiosk.